Ranked as the 149th largest power generation facility in Australia, the Kangaroo Valley plant plays a crucial role in the regional energy landscape despite its modest capacity of 160 MW. As the 19th largest hydroelectric power station among 102 such facilities in the country, it contributes a vital 0.10% to Australia's total installed capacity of 157,141 MW. This reflects the growing importance of hydroelectric power in a nation where solar energy dominates the energy mix. Located in the Shoalhaven region, this facility harnesses the power of flowing water to generate electricity, employing a system of turbines that convert kinetic energy into electrical energy efficiently. The hydro technology utilized here is well-suited to Australia's varied climatic conditions, particularly in areas with significant rainfall. The plant's strategic location places it within proximity to other notable energy facilities. Just 50 kilometers away, the Tallawarra plant generates 460 MW of gas-fired power, highlighting a significant fuel type contrast in the area. Additionally, the Bendeela power stations, which are also part of the Shoalhaven Scheme, operate with capacities of 240 MW and 80 MW respectively, showcasing a regional commitment to hydroelectric generation while underscoring the plant's relative capacity. With a national energy profile that features 678 total plants, the Kangaroo Valley facility stands out by contributing to the hydroelectric sector, which, while smaller than solar, serves as an essential backup and balancing resource for the grid. Owned and operated by Eraring Energy, this facility was commissioned in a period when Australia was beginning to diversify its energy sources more strategically. As the demand for renewable energy solutions continues to rise, the Kangaroo Valley plant signifies not just a commitment to sustainable practices but also a nod to the potential for hydroelectric energy as a reliable source for future generations. Its role in the local ecosystem, both environmentally and economically, remains significant as Australia transitions toward a greener energy future.
27 years old
Australia, Oceania
- Primary Fuel Type
- Hydro
- Energy Source
- Renewable
- Country
Australia- Continent
- Oceania
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Hydro power generation utilizes the kinetic energy of flowing water to produce electricity. This renewable energy source operates primarily through the use of hydroelectric power plants, which are strategically placed on rivers or in locations where water flow is significant. The fundamental principle behind hydro power generation is relatively straightforward: water stored in a reservoir is released, flowing through turbines that convert the water's kinetic energy into mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is then transformed into electrical energy through generators. The effectiveness of hydro power plants largely depends on the height from which water falls, known as the 'head,' and the volume of water flowing through the turbines, referred to as the 'flow rate.' Together, these factors determine the total energy output of the plant. Globally, there are approximately 7,842 hydro power plants distributed across 128 countries, with a total installed capacity of about 1,288.5 gigawatts (GW). China leads the world in hydro power generation, boasting 989 plants with a capacity of 279.9 GW. Other notable countries include Brazil with 756 plants (119.4 GW), the United States with 1,491 plants (110.2 GW), Canada with 612 plants (102.4 GW), and Madagascar, which, despite having only five plants, has a significant capacity of 91.1 GW. The extensive network of hydroelectric facilities underscores the importance of this energy source in the global power generation landscape. The advantages of hydro power generation are numerous. It is a renewable resource, making it a sustainable choice for electricity production. Hydro power plants typically have low operational costs once established, and they can be adjusted to meet fluctuating electricity demands, providing reliable baseload power. Additionally, hydroelectric plants contribute to reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based power generation, thereby aiding in climate change mitigation efforts. However, hydro power is not without its disadvantages. The construction of large dams can lead to significant ecological and social disruptions, including the displacement of communities and alterations to local ecosystems. The creation of reservoirs can flood vast areas of land, impacting wildlife habitats and biodiversity. Moreover, hydro power generation is highly dependent on climatic conditions; droughts can significantly reduce water availability, thereby compromising electricity output. In recent years, global trends indicate a growing emphasis on renewable energy sources, with hydro power continuing to play a pivotal role. Many countries are investing in modernizing existing hydroelectric plants to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impacts. Innovations such as small-scale hydro systems, which have a reduced ecological footprint, are gaining traction, especially in regions where large-scale projects may be infeasible. Looking ahead, the future of hydro power generation appears promising yet complex. As climate change continues to influence weather patterns, the availability of water resources for hydroelectric generation may become increasingly unpredictable. This necessitates a balancing act between harnessing hydroelectric potential and protecting the environmental and social integrity of affected regions. Continued advancements in technology and design, alongside a commitment to sustainable practices, will be crucial for the evolution of hydro power in the global energy mix. With its significant capacity and established infrastructure, hydro power remains a cornerstone of the renewable energy landscape, poised to contribute to a sustainable future.
Help us improve our database by reporting any corrections or updates. Your contribution helps keep our global power plant data accurate and up-to-date.